Moha

Definition - What does Moha mean?

Moha is a Sanskrit term meaning “delusion." It refers to the Hindu and Buddhist concept of ignorance that prevents the understanding of Truth. In yogic philosophy and the "Hatha Yoga Pradipika," moha is described as infatuation that clouds the mind. Hatha yoga is seen as one method of overcoming obstacles to the Truth (like moha).

Generally speaking, in Buddhist, Hindu and yogic traditions, the delusion or ignorance of which moha refers to is a lack of understanding of the true nature of the Self and of reality as it truly exists. Through a spiritual path, such as the practice of yoga, it is thought that moha can be replaced with panna, or wisdom.

Yogapedia explains Moha

Various traditions interpret moha in slightly different ways. In the Buddhist tradition of Theravada, moha is described as ignorance of the nature of reality, or avidya. In the Mahayana tradition, it is considered to be the state of mind that this ignorance causes: a state of confusion and not knowing what to do.

Suffering cannot cease until moha is removed. In Buddhism, avidya, and the two other “unwholesome roots” of craving and attachment, all together prolong the cycle of rebirth and suffering.